Abstract
The Mataranka Springs Complex is the headwater of the iconic Roper River of northern Australia. Using environmental tracers measured in springs and nearby boreholes, the origin of groundwater contributing to the springs was evaluated to help assess the impact of proposed groundwater extraction in the Cambrian Limestone Aquifer (CLA) for irrigation agriculture and for hydraulic fracturing in the Beetaloo Sub-basin (an anticipated world-class unconventional gas reserve). Major ions, Sr, 87Sr/86Sr, δ18O-H2O, δ2H-H2O, 3H, 14C-DIC were consistent with regional groundwater from the Daly and Georgina basins of the CLA as the sources of water sustaining the major springs (Rainbow and Bitter) and one of the minor springs (Warloch Pond). However, 3H = 0.34 TU in another minor spring (Fig Tree) indicated an additional contribution from a young (probably local) source. High concentrations of radiogenic 4He (> 10–7 cm3 STP g–1) at Rainbow Spring, Bitter Spring and in nearby groundwater also indicated an input of deeper, older groundwater. The presence of older groundwater within the CLA demonstrates the need for an appropriate baseline characterisation of the vertical exchange of groundwater in Beetaloo Sub-basin ahead of unconventional gas resource development.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
